The Federal Nigeria Society for the Blind (FNSB) has urged Nigerians to renew their commitment to supporting the empowerment and inclusion of visually impaired persons across the country.
Speaking at the Society’s 70th Anniversary Gala and Fundraising Dinner in Lagos, the Chairman of the Executive Council, Mrs. Arit Tunde-Imoyo, said the theme of the celebration, “Vision Without Eyes: Striving for Excellence,” underscores the organisation’s belief that true vision extends beyond physical sight to purpose, perseverance, and transforming limitations into possibilities.
Tunde-Imoyo highlighted that through its Vocational Training Centre (VTC) in Oshodi, the Society has empowered more than 5,000 visually impaired men and women with education and practical skills that promote independence and productivity.
“Our mission goes beyond rehabilitation to include restoration. Through the Eye Bank for Sight Restoration, we help those for whom blindness is curable regain their sight. Every life touched reminds us that blindness does not mean the end of opportunity,” she said.
She appealed for more volunteers and professionals to join the Society’s committees and council, stressing that its continued success depends on collective effort and public support.
“The funds raised at this gala will help us sustain and expand our programmes, upgrade training facilities, and introduce new technologies to prepare our trainees for a changing world. Every contribution tonight is an investment in human potential,” she added.
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A major highlight of the event was a fashion show by students of the Vocational Training Centre, showcasing their creativity and craftsmanship.
Dr. Goddie Isibo, a member of the FNSB Council and Chairman of the Strategy Committee, described the Society’s 70-year journey as one of giving hope and restoring dignity to people who had lost it. He noted that many beneficiaries were once professionals who lost their sight as adults and have since rebuilt their careers through training and technology.
“With software, our trainees can use computers to work as accountants, human resource managers, and other professionals. We give people a second chance to live meaningful, productive lives,” he said.
He added that the Society’s achievements have been made possible through public donations rather than government funding, urging continued support from individuals and organisations.
Another member of the Executive Council, Mr. Woji Weli, emphasised the importance of inclusion and public understanding of the challenges faced by visually impaired persons.
“Nigerians must recognize that the blind are, first of all, humans. Their needs must be acknowledged and supported. From prevention to rehabilitation, there is so much that individuals, corporations, and governments can do to improve their quality of life,” Weli said.
Vice Chairman of the Society and Chairperson of the Organising Committee, Mrs. Oluyemisi Daramola, said the anniversary also celebrated the achievements of the trainees.
“All the items on display tonight were produced by our students. Many of them have gone on to become employers of labour. One of our ex-trainees in Osogbo now exports his products to the US and UK, and he is totally blind,” Daramola said.
The Executive Secretary of the Society, Mr. Oluwamayowa Oke, described the 70th anniversary as a deeply meaningful milestone.
“It’s not just about looking back at seventy years of impact but about celebrating the people who made it possible — our past chairmen, council members, dedicated staff, and the families who have stood with us through the journey,” he said.
“This Gala is both a moment of gratitude and a renewed call for support. We invite more individuals, institutions, and corporate organizations to partner with us — to help sustain our training programmes at the Vocational Training Centre, Oshodi, our Eye Bank for sight restoration, and our work of giving hope and purpose to blind and visually impaired persons across Nigeria. Together, we can continue to make blindness not a limitation, but a story of courage and achievement”, he said.
